Tourism Center Fellowship
Mission
The Tourism Center Fellowship provides Sport, Outdoor Recreation, and Tourism Management (SORT) undergraduates with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in tourism research and applied analytics. Fellows work directly with SORT faculty and community partners to explore the impacts of tourism, in its varying forms, while developing professional skills and research experiences that translate to both graduate studies and future careers.
Position Overview
Job Description
Tourism Center Fellows will be involved in all stages of tourism-focused research, including:
- Onsite data collection at tourism destinations, events, or recreation areas.
- Education in research methodology.
- Implementation of data analysis and management tools.
- Assist faculty in report generation that communicates key findings for diverse audiences.
- Engage with clients, partners, and other stakeholders to communicate research needs, opportunities, and objectives.
- Presentation of analyses and findings at professional conferences or in meetings with the SORT faculty.
Benefits
- Direct mentorship from faculty researchers and tourism professionals.
- Practical experience that strengthens résumés and graduate school applications.
- Opportunities to present findings at conferences and professional meetings.
- Exposure to applied tourism research methods
- Networking with research partners.
- Stipend as well as hourly pay opportunities.
Example Projects
Past and potential projects include economic impact studies, visitor experience assessments, and tourism development analyses. Fellows may help evaluate the environmental quality of outdoor recreation sites, study visitor consumer behavior, or assess community impact from tourism opportunities.
https://www.utc.edu/sites/default/files/2025-08/cmnp_report.pdf
https://www.utc.edu/sites/default/files/2024-12/2023-chattanooga-marathon.pdf
https://www.utc.edu/sites/default/files/2024-12/2022-economic-and-contribution-impact-report-1.pdf
Eligibility
Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors with a strong interest in data analytics and/or tourism studies.
Application Process
Complete the online application and provide the following:
- Letter of Interest (100 words or less)
- Applicants should briefly explain why they are drawn to tourism research and what they hope to gain from the fellowship experience. This statement can highlight relevant coursework, personal or professional experiences, and career goals that connect to the program’s focus.
- Current GPA.
- College level (sophomore, junior, or senior).
- Indicate whether you have taken a research methods course (e.g. HHP 3100).
- Describe related experience (e.g., previous research/evaluation projects, service projects, academic or student employee roles).
- State your availability and how many hours per week you can commit.
Click the button below to access the application form.